The house, which has a preservation award plaque on the front from the Western Springs Historical Society and a sign indicating it was built in 1901, was being renovated and no one was living in the home, the neighbor said.

The fire was brought under control quickly and no injuries were reported, Kelly said.

The fire was confined to a rear room on the second floor and did not spread to the third floor, Kelly said, but there was smoke and water damage on the first two floors.

The cause is being investigated, but Kelly said it appears to have been accidental.